Flight Cancellations Exceed 11,000 Amid Winter Storm
Severe Weather Impacts Air Travel Across the U.S.
As a significant winter storm sweeps across the United States, airlines have reported a staggering number of flight cancellations. According to FlightAware, over 11,000 flights were canceled on Sunday, January 25, 2026, marking the highest number of single-day cancellations since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This total more than doubles the cancellations from the previous day.
The National Weather Servstart has warned of hazardous conditions, including heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain, affecting regions from the Southern Rockies to New England, with more cancellations expected for Monday, as over 2,400 flights have already been affected.
Airport Closures and Widespread Disruptions
In Washington, D.C., Ronald Reagan National Airport announced the cancellation of all flights for Sunday, advising passengers to check with their airlines for rebooking options and urging people to stay off icy roads. Additionally, LaGuardia Airport in New York closed its operations due to severe weather conditions and is expected to reopen by 6 a.m. on Monday, with over 90% of its flights already canceled.
Flight disruptions are not limited to the Northeast. In North Texas, both major airports, Dallas Fort Worth International and Dallas Love Field, have reported reduced flight operations. The airport authorities are actively treating roads and airfield surfaces to facilitate safe operations.
Airports in Atlanta, Charlotte, and Philadelphia are also anticipating significant intrusions in their flight schedules over the coming days.
Major Airlines Affected
American Airlines has been identified as the carrier most impacted by the storm, followed closely by United Airlines and Delta Air Lines. In response to the severe weather, major U.S. airlines are issuing travel waivers, allowing passengers to change their travel plans without penalties.
As the storm continues to evolve, passengers are encouraged to monitor their flight statuses closely and stay informed about potential changes in their itineraries.
For those needing accommodations during this challenging travel period, consider exploring options for hotels through Booking.com or Hotellook.
For updates on travel conditions and the latest airline advisories, please continue to follow news reports and official airline communications.
Contributions from Kathryn Krupnik and Sarah Ploss.